Inside Kelly Clarkson And Brandon Blackstock's Messy Divorce

One of the issues in Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock's messy divorce was a property in Montana the couple fought over. The sprawling ranch, valued at $17,750,000, became a point of contention during the divorce, since Clarkson wanted to sell the property, and Blackstock wanted to keep it, testifying that he needed it for his new business as a full-time rancher.

According to documents obtained by Us Weekly, Clarkson deemed the Montana ranch a financial burden, but Blackstock argued that his career change from music manager to rancher made it necessary for him to keep the property. Blackstock was apparently only managing one client at the time, country superstar and "The Voice" coach Blake Shelton, but he was eager to put all his time and effort into working as a rodeo manager while living at the ranch. Shelton, Clarkson's friend and "The Voice" co-star, ultimately ended up firing Blackstock in 2021.

Claims that the Montana property was a shared marital asset were dismissed, and Clarkson was ultimately awarded full ownership of the ranch, while Blackstock was given a 5.12% share of the property. The "Miss Independent" singer had tried to have Blackstock evicted from the residence prior to the ruling, but she was unsuccessful. Blackstock was ordered to pay Clarkson rent, but the amount was only a fraction of what Clarkson was already paying Blackstock in spousal support. In June 2022, Blackstock finally moved out, having purchased a $1.8 million home in Butte, Montana.